"They have tried to hang me on an isolated word, taken out of context from my whole speech … I did not say anything against the Islamic civilization... It's the work of some people in the Italian leftist press who wanted to tarnish my image and destroy my long-standing relations with Arabs and Muslims."

“We must be aware of the superiority of our civilization, a system that has guaranteed well-being, respect for human rights and — in contrast with Islamic countries — respect for religious and political rights, a system that has as its value understanding of diversity and tolerance … The West will continue to conquer peoples, even if it means a confrontation with another civilization, Islam, firmly entrenched where it was 1,400 years ago.”

“I am the Jesus Christ of politics. I am a patient victim, I sacrifice myself for everyone.”

“I know in Italy there is a producer, producing a film on Nazi concentration camps. I will suggest you for the role of kapo. You would be perfect for that role.”

“The Observer, Did I say that?”

“I'm a man of honour, a truthful person, a gentleman of absolute morality.”

“The left has always been on the wrong side. They were against Hitler, but not against Stalin.”